kidney friendly dog treats recipe

The Best Dog Treats for Kidney Disease (Low Protein)

If your dog received the diagnosis of kidney disease, its diet would change. Your vet is likely to prescribe a low protein diet to relieve the strain on kidneys. Occasional snacks are still acceptable on this meal plan, as long as you only use low protein dog treats.

Acceptable Foods and Ingredients

A dog with kidney disease will have specific dietary adjustments. The three most common ingredients that need to be monitored are:

• Phosphorus
• Protein
• Sodium

This applies to regular meals and treats. All kidney disease dog foods are formulated to be low in these three ingredients, and the same should apply to whatever treats you choose.

Note that it's recommended that you do not give your pet any treats until the transition to your dog's new therapeutic diet for kidney disease is complete.

Once your pet has successfully adjusted to its new meal plan, you can add in low protein dog treats that represent no more than 10% of a dog's recommended daily caloric intake.

A canine nutritionist or vet can provide you with that calorie guideline.

For dogs with kidney disease on a low protein meal plan, popular edible chews like rawhide and pig's ears are not recommended.

What's in the Refrigerator?

You don't have to buy commercial dog treats for kidney disease. There are some things in your refrigerator-that many dogs love, and they will go well with your pet's new low protein diet.

Some of those foods include:

Similarly, you can choose to feed your dog a homemade diet that's specifically made for kidney disease. However, going this route means more work for you during the initial stages.

It's essential to consult with a vet or canine nutritionist and make sure you know how much to feed a dog and what supplements to include so the diet is well-balanced.

Best Dog Treats for Kidney Disease (Low Protein)

While most dog treats are actually high in protein (since healthy dogs need them), several kidney disease dog treats will be lower in protein.

The below list of best dog treats for kidney disease does not constitute recommendations but rather a starting place for your shopping; consult with your vet before buying them.

Mattie's Healthy Treats for Dogs with Kidney DiseaseCrude Protein: 6.8%

Find it on Amazon ($12.99, 16 oz bag)Unavailable on Chewy

Prescription-based treats aside, these are the only commercial dog treats specifically made to be low protein and designed for dogs with kidney problems.

Mattie's Healthy Treats company is a small family-run business, and they are focused on helping dogs with kidney disease.

The company even donates a portion of sales to the Morris Animal Foundation for canine kidney disease research.

These treats are low in protein and contain no gluten, soy, corn, or wheat. They're flavored with pumpkin and cinnamon. The remaining ingredients include light rye flour, tapioca flour, omega-3 fish oil, and canola oil.

They are about 1 3/4 long and 1 wide, perfect for nearly any sized dog. You can break them into smaller pieces easily.

There's a great success rate in terms of the palatability of these treats, and most dogs will enjoy the taste.

Zesty Paws Cranberry for Dogs TreatsCrude Protein: 0%

Find it on Amazon ($25.97, 12.7 oz container)Find it on Chewy ($25.97, 12.7 oz container)

Zesty Paws Cranberry for dogs is more of a chew supplement than a treat, but most dogs will find them delicious, unlike many other supplements.

These kidney-friendly dog chews focus on UT support, kidney function, and a dog's overall immune system.

They're designed with ingredients that won't strain the kidneys or bladder, and in fact, support their health. There are no artificial flavors, preservatives, corn, grain, or soy.

Cranberries were shown in studies to promote urinary and kidney health in both humans and animals. So each Zesty Paws cranberry dog chew contains 200mg of cranberry concentrate.

Other ingredients that promote comfortable urination and detoxification in dogs include marshmallow root, licorice root, nettle seed, and astragalus. This combination also offers inflammation relief.

The product is FDA registered, and GMP certified in the U.S. Zesty Paws has long been one of our favorite brands of dog treats and supplements, and many other pet owners share the same view.

Hill's Nutrition Dog Treats for Kidney DiseaseCrude Protein: 9.0%

Find it on Amazon ($7.26, 12 oz bag)Find it on Chewy ($7.26, 12 oz bag)

When it comes to veterinarian-recommended dog treats for kidney disease, Hill's Science Diet is often at the top of the list because it invests a lot into scientific research and designing their foods and treats following an evidence-based approach.

These low protein dog treats are a good example of that, where they allow pets with kidney problems to enjoy an occasional snack while also providing support for their kidneys, heart, and joints.

They might go best with a prescription dog food brand from Hill's, but it's not essential.

Developed by veterinarians and measuring at 35 calories per treat, they're healthy but fairly calorie-dense, so be careful not to overfeed your pet.

This makes them delicious (along with the chewy texture) and means you can't give too many. At 9% crude protein, the main ingredients are chicken and potatoes.

There are added omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil, another benefit for senior or arthritic pets.

Raw Paws Natural Sweet Potato Low Protein Dog TreatsCrude Protein: 4.2%

Find it on Amazon ($12.99, 6 oz bag)Unavailable on Chewy

If prescription dog treats (which require veterinary approval) are not an option, the Raw Paws treats are a great alternative.

Vegetarian, grain-free, low in calories, low in phosphorus, and low in protein (only 4.2%), these are perfect for dogs with kidney problems.

They have only one ingredient dehydrated sweet potato, a complex carbohydrate that's highly digestible for dogs. Most pups enjoy the flavor, and it's a great source of beta-carotene (Vitamin A).

You may think a dog will not enjoy something without any protein in it at all, but it's unlikely to be the case with these. Their smell, sweet taste, and crunchy texture actually make them very appealing.

They're also tiny in size, which means you can give more of these throughout the day or use them for training. Our dogs loved these treats made in the USA by a company with a good reputation.

Pet Wellbeing Dogs Kidney Support GoldCrude Protein: 0%

Find it on Amazon ($37.95, 2 fl oz)Find it on Chewy ($37.95, 2 fl oz)

If low protein dog treats aren't an option, or you're looking for something in addition to that, you can always try a natural supplement like this one.

Kidney Support Gold is a natural product for your dog's kidney health. The ingredient formula helps to promote improved energy levels, normal urination, increased thirst in dogs, and appetite regulation.

All ingredients are organically grown herbs.

The two-ounce bottle is enough for a small or medium dog as a one-month supply. And since it's a liquid, it's easily administered through your pet's meal.

One interesting thing about The Pet Wellbeing company is that their website could be an additional selling point.

They have online assistance, a vet that you can consult with or ask questions about these supplements, or a specific kidney issue in your dog.

Lexelium Kidney and Liver Support Supplement for DogsCrude Protein: 0%

Find it on Amazon ($22.99, 7.5 oz bag)Unavailable on Chewy

Finally, another kidney health supplement option for dogs is this powder, which you can add to meals as a topping or use to make your own low-protein dog treats for kidney disease.

Lexelium liver support is a little different in that you can use it for both your dog and cat's kidney and liver health. This powder is vet formulated and is sugar, soy, and dairy-free.

Ingredients include milk thistle, calendula extract, sprouted wheat, and wheat germ.

All of these have been scientifically proven to promote either kidney or liver health, and you can find references to studies on the Lexelium website.

READ NEXT:How to Feed Dogs With Kidney Disease

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Homemade Treats For Dogs With Kidney Disease

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Many pet owners find it challenging to transition their dog onto a therapeutic diet after being informed they have kidney disease. Homemade treats can make transition easier for all involved.

1. Eggs

Dogs with kidney disease need protein. High-protein foods like bones and egg yolks should be avoided as treats; cooked egg whites offer a tasty yet low-protein treat option suitable for those living with kidney disease.

Kidney disease requires substantial changes to your dogs diet. Vet-approved homemade recipes can help meet his nutritional needs without providing excess nutrients; such as low-phosphorus proteins and beneficial fats with controlled calcium content.

2. Turkey

An optimal diet for their canines overall wellbeing is of paramount importance; however, many pet parents find it challenging to provide their pups with enough healthy foods and treats when their pups have kidney disease.

Luckily, homemade recipes that are suitable for CKD dogs exist. These dishes contain low levels of protein, sodium and phosphorus while offering plenty of vegetables and essential nutrients.

3. Quinoa

Quinoa is a gluten-free whole grain that provides protein, fiber and many essential vitamins and minerals, including antioxidants that may help your pet defend themselves against kidney disease caused by oxidative stress.

Paw some Oldies offers this renal diet recipe which is low in protein, sodium and phosphorous and easy to make! Just mix all the ingredients together and bake. Enjoy!

4. Salmon

Diet is an integral component of managing kidney disease. Vet-approved homemade dog food recipes for chronic kidney disease typically feature lower phosphorus protein sources as well as non-toxic vegetables to provide fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

Extra phosphorus puts additional stress on compromised kidneys and may exacerbate their condition, so when making dietary changes it is wise to consult a veterinarian; they may suggest therapeutic kidney diets available commercially as pet food options.

5. Lamb

Dogs suffering from kidney disease must receive sufficient water in their diet in order to flush their systems. Furthermore, adding hydrating ingredients like broth or vegetables can also help them feel more hydrated.

Kidney diets for dogs are designed to contain less protein, phosphorus and sodium while providing healthy fats and nontoxic vegetables. Speak to your vet to determine the ideal kidney diet for your pup!

6. Chicken

Dogs suffering from kidney disease tend to prefer moist, tasty foods. Talk with your veterinarian about preparing homemade meals low in protein and phosphorous content for your pup.

Maintain a careful watch over your dog during its transition to a new diet. Regular veterinary checkups will enable you to identify early signs of kidney disease, while treatment adjustments can slow its progress. Hydration is equally essential; ensure that fresh water is always accessible.

7. Duck

Dogs suffering from kidney disease require a low protein diet in order to prevent the buildup of waste products, and also require lower sodium diets in order to lower blood pressure.

Cooking at home is a simple way to add these vital ingredients into your pets diet. Many dogs with kidney disease can live happy, long lives with proper nutrition. Partner with your vet in creating an individualized dietary plan for your pup.

8. Beef

Many companies that produce therapeutic diets for kidney disease also produce treats; these tend to be slightly more costly.

Choose low-phosphorus protein sources like egg whites (avoid yolks which are excessively high in phosphorus). Add easily digestible carbohydrates such as rice or potatoes; provide antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids from fish body oils; provide plenty of fresh water as hydration support;

9. Chicken liver

Homemade kidney-friendly treats are an integral component of a renal diet for your dog. Not only can these treats help manage protein consumption and phosphorous levels, they can also provide essential vitamins such as folic acid, B2, and riboflavin that will support their body.

This easy liver dog treat recipe is packed with protein and iron for optimal pet nutrition, plus contains organ meats as a valuable source of digestible phosphorous.

10. Salmon oil

Diets with reduced protein and lower phosphorus intakes are important in supporting kidney health in dogs. Our treats made with dried sweet potatoes contain no preservatives, chemicals, or fillers just the natural goodness your pup deserves!

Before making any dietary adjustments for your dog with chronic kidney disease, always consult a veterinarian or veterinary nutritionist first. Together you can ensure the best outcome possible for his/her wellbeing and longevity.